Manchester United welcome Brighton to Old Trafford this Saturday in what promises to be one of the most intriguing fixtures of the Premier League weekend. Both sides head into the clash buoyed by major wins — United edged Liverpool 2–1 at Anfield, while Brighton stunned Newcastle by the same scoreline.
Yet despite the momentum on both sides, pundits Chris Sutton and Gary Neville are completely divided over who will come out on top.
Chris Sutton backs Brighton’s “fearless” approach
BBC Sport pundit Chris Sutton believes Fabian Hürzeler’s Brighton can secure another statement victory at Old Trafford, claiming that Manchester United’s win over Liverpool flattered them.
“United were lucky with their first goal against Liverpool last week. The game should have been stopped, and we’ve all seen the issues with the Liverpool backline this season too. So while I understand any win at Anfield is massive, it doesn’t mean they’ve cracked it.” — Chris Sutton, via BBC Sport
Sutton praised Brighton’s bravery and organisation under their young German coach, tipping former United striker Danny Welbeck to score against his old club.
“The Seagulls are always bold under Fabian Hürzeler and they will be fearless at Old Trafford too. I’m backing Welbeck to get one of their goals and haunt his former club.”
Sutton’s prediction: Manchester United 1–2 Brighton
Gary Neville and Paul Scholes predict a United response
Former Manchester United players Gary Neville and Paul Scholes see it differently. Speaking on The Overlap, the duo backed Rúben Amorim’s side to capitalise on their momentum and deliver a strong performance — but ultimately expect United to get the job done at home.
“United. This is it. I know, 3–1 United,” Neville said confidently to Scholes.
Neville believes the victory at Anfield could prove a turning point in United’s season, helping them rediscover belief and intensity after an inconsistent start.
Scholes agreed that Amorim’s men have enough quality to hurt Brighton, but cautioned that United still need to show defensive discipline after conceding 13 goals in their first eight matches.
Brighton’s fearless football under Hürzeler
Brighton’s rise under Fabian Hürzeler, still only 32, has been one of the stories of the season. The Seagulls sit 10th in the Premier League, just one place behind United, and have already beaten Chelsea, Manchester City, and Newcastle this campaign.
Hürzeler’s side have become known for their vertical passing, aggressive pressing, and attacking fearlessness — qualities that have made them one of the league’s toughest sides to contain.
| Brighton 2025/26 Premier League | Record |
|---|---|
| Played | 8 |
| Wins | 4 |
| Draws | 1 |
| Losses | 3 |
| Goals Scored | 15 |
source: Premier League data – 23 October 2025
Meanwhile, Danny Welbeck has rolled back the years with a sharp start to the season, netting five goals in eight appearances. His movement and experience have been vital for Brighton’s high-tempo attack, and Sutton expects him to once again play a decisive role.
Our View
In our view, this is a fascinating clash between two evolving sides. Manchester United’s Anfield win was a psychological boost but hardly a performance that silenced their critics. Brighton, on the other hand, are playing with freedom and confidence — a hallmark of Hürzeler’s bold management style.
Old Trafford will test Brighton’s composure, but the Seagulls have already proven they can win in hostile environments. This game may hinge on midfield control: if United’s pressing falters, Brighton could dictate the rhythm and expose defensive gaps.
Analyst Verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William writes:
I think Sutton’s logic makes sense — Brighton’s fearlessness is exactly the type of football that unsettles Manchester United right now. Amorim has made them more fluid, but the defence still looks fragile under pressure.
We believe United should edge this one if they start quickly, but if Brighton weather the early storm, Welbeck and Mitoma could cause havoc on transitions.
Key Insights
- Chris Sutton predicts Brighton to beat Man United 2–1 at Old Trafford.
- Gary Neville expects a 3–1 home win for United.
- Danny Welbeck backed to score against his former club.
- Brighton have beaten Chelsea, Man City, and Newcastle this season.
- Both sides coming off morale-boosting wins last weekend.
What’s Next
Manchester United host Brighton on Saturday, 25 October 2025, in a crucial match for both clubs’ European ambitions. The Red Devils will hope to continue building under Amorim, while Brighton aim to prove they belong in the Premier League’s top half conversation.
Whatever happens, expect goals — and another chapter in the growing rivalry between two forward-thinking sides.
👉 Who’s got it right — Sutton’s fearless Brighton or Neville’s confident United?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 24 Oct 2025 09:35
United only lost to Arsenal at home this season, I dont think United will lose, however - you never know with Brighton. They didnt play great against Chelsea and were lucky with the red card that has been given in that game. After that game they kinda get it going. I think It will be a draw
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